cheap + fun date ideas you have to try!

As you all know, I'm headed to Montana this summer to spend three months with my man! I'm beyond excited and its only 30-something days away! Three months is the longest we've spent together at one time, even though with work he'll be gone for half of it. But being together all the time means we're going to do lots of fun things. Last summer, we were in Germany where there were so many fun things to do but in Montana- not so much. So, we have to be a little more creative with our dates. Plus, going out on dates can be expensive, so I've been brainstorming some things that are either free or really cheap that we (and you!) can do for fun with your loved one!

Go for a hike
I'm especially excited for this one. Montana has a lot of good hiking spots, and it's going to be beautiful this summer!

Watch the sunset
How romantic! Blankets in the back of the truck, some wine, country music, and the sunset!

Watch the sunrise
"You ever watched the sun go down from the bed of a pickup truck? Ever been so into somebody you're still lying there when it comes back up?" Exactly.

Order in and watch movies
Pizza (or if you're stomach hates you like mine does- Chinese) and some Netflix. It doesn't get much better than that! Plus, movies = cuddling.

See a matinee showing of a movie
This is great if you want a daytime date that's cheap but still just as fun. Most movie theaters have early showings for a discounted price. Some cities even have dollar theaters that play older movies!

Craft/build something
Do something Pinterest inspired! The DIY section has tons of good ideas for that stuff.

Cook dinner together
Make something nice and don't do all the work- make him help! Cooking together can be so fun. Set up a table with candles, some wine, and good music and it'll be even better than going out to eat!

Bake cookies
Baking together can be so fun- maybe even start a flour fight ;)

Work out together
Not everyone is into this, but going to the gym together is a good way to stay healthy but still spend time together.

Go for a walk
Unless you live in sketchy Tucson like me. But going on a walk on a nice day can be so relaxing and gives you a chance to focus on each other and talk.

Walk around downtown
If your town has a little downtown area, grab dinner or coffee and walk around! Visit some boutiques and just enjoy each other's company.

Go (window) shopping
If you're trying to save money, but the mall is the only thing to do where you're from (like in Montana ugh) then go window shopping! It never hurts to look around! Walking the mall hand in hand can be more fun than you think!

Volunteer
Giving back to the community is always rewarding, and it can be so fun if you find a cool opportunity and share it with the one you love!

Visit a farmer's market
If you're going to make dinner together, try getting the ingredients from a local farmer's market! If you're not planning on cooking, its still a fun place to walk around. Free samples anyone?!

Build a blanket fort
A blanket fort that includes a TV, wine, and some dessert can make for a cozy + romantic evening!

Have a movie marathon
Is anyone else a Netflix binger? Have a marathon of your favorite movies or TV series.

Surprise each other
Surprises are always fun. Make him a surprise dinner, or plan a surprise date! The element of surprise always makes things more exciting.

Play board games
Or video games. Anything where you can have fun and compete! Loser buys froyo!

Have friends over for dinner
You decorate, he mans the grill. Having friends over for a BBQ is always fun.

Have a picnic
Make some lunch or pick it up, pack some blankets and a frisbee, and head to the park!

Get coffee together
Coffee is just a cheaper alternative to getting lunch, and you can walk around while you drink it!

Try out a local restaurant
Exploring your city and finding new places to eat is the best! Who knows, you might find your new favorite lunch spot!

Drive
Just drive. Go somewhere random. Blast some music, hold hands, and don't stop driving until you find somewhere fun to stop!

Explore a new city
I'm excited to do this this summer. We're planning to go to one of the bigger cities and explore. Shop, find good restaurants, visit the zoo! A new city means new adventures!

What're your favorite date ideas?

how NOT to break up with someone

Breaking up with someone is clearly never an easy thing to do. But I mean if he's not floatin' your boat anymore somethings got to be done, right? Sometimes it seems as if there's no easy way to do it. Which it totally true, but there are some ways that are definitely worse than others. Personally, I've never been dumped in a manner that was too strange or cruel, but I know some people who have, and there are definitely plenty of ways not to break up with someone. Clearly, if any of these have happened to you, he wasn't worth it.

// a text message // 
Oh boy...story time! My best friend and I were at a restaurant one night and she thought the bus boy was cute. So naturally I left her number on the receipt, but we didn't really expect him to call. The next morning we were in my pool getting our tan on and her phone rang. It was him. Let's call him "Asshole." (you'll see why). Anyway, Asshole took her on a couple of dates and I'm pretty sure they were all pretty awkward. Oh, and let me go back and say that the very first etext he ever sent her was "Are you DTF?" NO. That's when we should've known. She wasn't that into him, but when they were at a red light and he asked her to be his girlfriend, she felt bad saying no and just said yes. So really this whole thing is probably her fault but still. So fast forward like a week. We were at SeaWorld. They were texting and he was talking to her about doing things that were not so appropriate for the blog. When she told him she wasn't going to do that with him, he replied, "Well it was fun hangin lmao xD" THAT WAS HIS BREAKUP TEXT. Does she know how to pick em or what?

// through a friend //
I guess this one's okay if you're in third grade. I get it- you're afraid to break the news to your not so special someone, but c'mon. It's never okay to have your friend break up with your girlfriend/boyfriend for you. It's hard enough getting dumped, let alone not being able to actually hear it from the person breaking up with you. Also, if you ever are the messenger and agree to break up with someone for a friend, you're an idiot.

// by doing absolutely nothing //
Ignoring people is rude in general. Especially if you're in a relationship with them. Cutting off communication might seem like an easy way out, but seriously who would do that? If I were in a relationship with a guy who just stopped talking to me, I'm pretty sure I'd freak out and think he was dead. So that would be fun.

// in a big group of people //
One thing I never understood is why people would talk about about their boyfriend or girlfriend to others or post it on social media. Sure, if you need to vent to a friend about some issues, that's one thing. But airing your relationship drama to the public is not only inconsiderate, but it's embarrassing for you and your significant other. Same goes with breaking up. If you're going to leave someone, don't do it publicly. Don't do it when they're around their friends. It should be something private where you can talk it out and not embarrass them.

// by changing your relationship status //
This one kills me. Do people really do this? I think its pretty obvious that changing your relationship status on Facebook is not a significant way to end a relationship with someone.

// on a holiday //
This one's the worst because it's so easily preventable. I know plenty of people who have been dumped on their birthday or on Christmas. Like honestly, if you're going to break up with someone thats usually a decision that you make in more than one day. I don't understand the problem with waiting one extra day and letting them enjoy their holiday. Its cruel! No one wants to get dumped on Valentine's Day.

What's the worst way you've broken up with someone? Or been broken up with?

five out of seven

Five out of seven. We've said goodbye five times. We've had five terribly hard goodbyes in airports in two different states, two different countries. Each one is just as hard, but we've gotten better about not dragging them out. Our goodbye after the summer in Germany was the worst. We sat in that airport for a good hour crying. Since then it's gotten shorter and shorter every time. We try to "rip the bandaid off" and just get it over with, because sitting there crying and dragging out doesn't make it any easier. But I'm sitting on the plane as I write this, with a big smile on my face because of what DJ said to me before I walked through security. 

Five out of seven. We only have two more goodbyes. One after I spend this summer with him, and one after I go visit next October. After that last goodbye, we never have to be apart again. We've spent the last year and a half missing each other on and off for months at a time, but in nine short months it'll all be over. It sounds like forever away right now, but I know that December will be here before I know it and I'll finally get to be with my best friend every day for the rest of my life. Plus, three of those months I will be with him, so we really only have to spend six months apart. Ever. 

It's such a crazy feeling to know that THIS YEAR I graduate college and move to be with him. We've been talking a lot about our plans. Where I'll try to work, if he'll be getting out of the military, where we want to live. We're approaching such an exciting point in our journey together and it makes my heart so happy to think about that!

Being in a long distance relationship is so tough, and I can't wait to be done with that BS. But I honestly wouldn't trade it for anything. I'm so happy that we started our relationship long distance. Those five heart wrenching goodbyes reminded us that we don't want to be away from each other, and that we shouldn't take our time together for granted. Every sweet hello reminds us how exciting love can be. Every day we got to spend together was special, and I truly believe that once we're together every day, well always remember the times when we longed to be together and be grateful for what we have. 

Two more goodbyes and my life will change forever, and it couldn't come fast enough.

what makes my relationship work

Whenever I post about relationships around here, I really try to emphasize the fact that all relationships are different. I mentioned in this post that I've learned not to compare my relationship to others, and I believe it honestly makes a huge difference in your happiness. Every couple has their own dynamic, their own traditions, their own style of showing affection. I don't think that there is a "right" way and "wrong" way to do most things in a relationship. Sure, cheating is clearly wrong, and showing someone you care about them surely is the right thing to do, but there really isn't a set way to do things regarding most aspects of a relationship. I get quite a few emails asking for relationship "advice" and asking what makes our relationship work, so I thought I would just share a little more about the dynamics of my relationship. Its probably nothing you haven't heard, but yolo.

We're the kind of couple that shares everything. We talk about our feelings. We talk about poop. We literally can talk about anything and everything. We talk pretty much all day long, and we keep each other updated on what were doing, who were with, and all of that jazz. Not in a controlling way by any means though, were just always texting and talking about what we're doing and stuff. I think that this really helps with our trust. I never have to worry about where he's at or what he's doing. If one of us is going somewhere where we won't be able to talk for a while, we tell each other. Its nice knowing that no matter what he's doing, he's thinking about me.

We're the kind of couple that does all of the cheesy crap. We "argue" over who loves the other more, we send long texts before bed about how much we love each other, we send each other care packages, we talk about how amazing our future together is going to be, we talk about what we're going to name our kids. That might make some of you want to throw up, and I don't blame you, but it works for us. We're not together right now, so thinking about the future when we are together brings us happiness. All of the cheesy texts and things we do help us remind each other how much we care, since we can't do that in person every day.

We're the kind of couple that enjoys doing nothing. When we're together, we have fun being at home. We can lay around all day watching movies and doing nothing, and it can still be the best day ever. We go walk around places, go out to eat, see movies, and all of that fun stuff too, but we're perfectly content just enjoying each other's company. It's so nice to have someone you can relax with and that you can have fun doing boring things with, you know? We can have fun cleaning or grocery shopping or doing laundry!

We're the kind of couple that makes fun of each other. He has a HUGE forehead, and I love making fun of him for it. He teases me right back! He's my best friend. We can be silly and pick on each other and goof around, and I love that.  I'm not a very serious person, and neither is he, but we can also be serious when we need to be.

We support each other, put each other's wants and needs before our own, we communicate and trust each other, and we have fun together. We love each other wholeheartedly and we never let each other forget it. We just get each other. I know that I'm so lucky that I have such an amazing man in my life, but its not all luck. We work together to make our relationship what it is. I'm not saying that all relationships should be like ours, but what we have works for us. Really the only advice I have on the matter is to find whatever works for you as a couple. There is no secret formula to a successful relationship. If you're happiest when you're out doing things, then go out! If you're happy at home, spend your nights together with some Netflix. If you love the hopeless romantic cheesy shit, stay home, make a romantic candlelit meal ,and slow dance in the kitchen!

What makes your relationship work?

what I learned from being in a relationship

Well, you all know that I'm in a serious relationship. If you don't know that, get wit it because it's basically all I talk about. It was the reason I started this blog, it's my inspiration for most of my posts, and it's the one thing in my life that brings me pure happiness. Dj and I have a pretty mature relationship I'd say, and over the course of this past year, I've learned so much. I've learned from both being in a serious relationship and from my handsome man himself.

You can't compare your relationship to others
This is something I've struggled with personally for a long time, and I've mentioned that a few times before around here. But I think that it also applies to relationships. I've never compared my relationship with Dj to others' in a negative way, but I've been around people who have, and I've seen what this can do to relationships. Every relationship dynamic is different, and people's happiness can't be defined by comparing it to the happiness of others.

Sometimes you have to do things you don't want to do
Relationships are compromise. Sometimes I have to watch Sports Center and sometimes Dj gets stuck watching Say Yes to the Dress marathons. But that's love, right? I think that this is something a lot of people forget. As relationships grow and you get comfortable around someone, it's not uncommon to become a little selfish. I've experiences it before in past relationships, and I've seen it happen to people around me. I think that it's so important to keep in mind that sometimes you have to put your wants aside and do something for the sake of your loved one's happiness.

Communication is more important than you think
Seriously. A lack of communication can be a relationship killer. Being in this relationship with Dj I've learned that talking about things is absolutely the best way to deal with any issues that arise. Whenever I'm feeling down, have concerns, or I'm not happy about something, I tell him. He always makes me feel better and we always work things out by talking through it. We never really fight because we handle our disagreements really well. Especially being in a long distance relationship, we've gotten really good at communicating.

You should never have to settle
I've mentioned before that I was in a pretty bad relationship all of high school. I was treated like crap, and looking back I have no clue why I put up with it. I thought he was the best I could have, because I didn't realize that there are guys out there that would treat me with respect. I think that today there is this idea that chivalry is completely dead and that men do not know how to treat women. But I can assure you that that's not true. Dj is an amazing man, and he treats me like a girl should be treated. He's a gentleman, he's respectful, and he loves and takes care of me every day. He made me realize that settling for something less than you deserve should never be an option, because there are people out there that are worth it.

The little things matter
I think this is a huge one. Whether its surprising each other, helping with the boring stuff like laundry, complementing each other, or just showing each other affection, it all makes such a difference. I never really realized this until I started dating DJ. He always does things for me, and shows me how much he loves me. I honestly get so happy from the smallest things he says/does, and I know that I'm so lucky. You don't realize how much those things matter until you see how a relationship can suffer without them. It's hard being in a long distance relationship to show someone how much you care everyday, but I'm honestly so lucky that Dj and I never stop doing those little things to show each other that we care.

What have you learned from your relationship?

my dream guy

The other night, my roommates and I were talking about what qualities the "perfect guy" for us would possess. It's something I'm pretty sure all girls talk about in like eighth grade, but we had so much fun coming up with a list of qualities a mile long. From the obvious things like he has to shower, to the super nit picky things that my roommate said like, "he has to take care of me but not be pushy about it- like, he has to let me be independent sometimes." 

Now, you all know I'm obsessed with Handsome. I've found my perfect guy, and I love everything about him. He pretty much embodies (most) of the things on here, but I didn't make this list based on him. I'm just lucky that I found a guy that fits my list pretty well ;) 

So, my dream guy...

+ is romantic. I am a hopeless romantic for sure. I love anything overly cheesy and disgustingly lovey dovey. I want flowers, nice dinners, watching the sunrise and all that crap, you know? I mean yeah I love staying home watching TV and ordering in pizza (or maybe something with a little less cheese), but every once and a while a nice romantic gesture is always appreciated.

+ dresses well. I used to not care about what a guy wore. But as I've gotten older (aka I'm not in high school anymore), it really bothers me when all a guy wears is a T-shirt and basketball shorts. I mean, if were just lounging around the house or even just going to run an errand, it's whatever. But if we're going to a movie, or the mall, dinner, or anywhere out together in public, he has to look nice. At least nice jeans and a clean shirt, right? Oh, and he has to wear a watch. Watches are sexy. 

+ loves country music. That's a given. If we don't have the same taste in music, only bad things can happen. It leads to arguments over who gets to pick the music you play in the car, you can't go to concerts together, and all that shit. I'm obsessed with music, and all I listen to is country, so this one's important to me. Maybe he doesn't have to love it, but he has to be willing to listen to it at the very least!

+ is a gentleman. Guys these days are rude. I need a man that will hold doors for me, open the car door for me (I didn't realize guys did that, but handsome does for me every time and I love it), he has to pay when we go out (or at least offer to pay), and complement me. I know, that sounds so stuck up and conceited. But were talking about a fictional perfect guy here, and don't tell me that's not ideal.

+ is stable. He has to be going somewhere with his life. If he doesn't have a job, he better be in school. If he's not in school, he better have a job that will take him somewhere. If I'm going to have a future with someone, they have to be able to help support us.

+ makes me laugh. I like to laugh. I like a funny guy. I think that's pretty self explanatory. He also has to think I'm funny. Well, because I am.

Remember when I said that Handsome fits (most) of these? Well, as I was writing this I realized that he fits it all. Shit, I'm one lucky girl! It wouldn't be a post about the perfect guy without a picture of us, right? 

This picture's perfect for this post. You know why? Because we're wearing Krispy Kreme hats. It's perfect because if there wasn't a perfect guy out there for me, I'd probably marry a donut.

never let anyone tell you that what you feel isn't real

People can be so quick to judge each other's relationships. I'm not saying that I haven't been guilty of this in the past, but ever since I started talking to Handsome, my perspective has changed a little.

Like I've mentioned a million times, Handsome and I began talking online. After communicating over the phone for a few months, we knew we had something special before we even hung out in person. Once we finally got to be together, I knew he was it for me. Yeah, we'd been talking for only a few months, and yes we only got to hang out a few times over the course of one month, but I knew. He was the first man that I'd ever had feelings that strong for. I thought I knew what love was before I met him, but he made me realize that what I felt before wasn't even close to the real thing. Of course I shared this with my friends- who doesn't love to talk about their current love interest? But they didn't necessarily understand. They didn't understand how I could already (possibly) love him after only being with him a few times. They thought I was jumping in too quickly. Maybe I was, but I just knew.  I couldn't tell them enough. I know that he's special. I know that he's not going to hurt me. I know that we can make it as a couple even though were across the world from each other.

Of course, my friends thought they knew better than I did. They still didn't believe that what I felt was real. They couldn't believe that I could fall for someone so fast. They judged my relationship. It hurt me. I felt like I couldn't talk about it with them. I felt secure in my relationship- shouldn't that be enough for them? I understand they were concerned, and they didn't want me to get hurt. But not having that support from your friends, or even having "support," but knowing that their judging you, is hard. Especially when they're your only support system. I didn't have Handsome there. I was away from the man I loved, and I needed that support from my friends. But I didn't ask for it because I didn't want to be judged.

When I was going to spend the summer with Handsome in Germany, people still doubted us. I was beyond excited to go spend two months with the man I loved in an amazing place I'd always dreamed of going. But everyone told me to "be careful" because we'd never spent that much time together before. They told me to "be ready in case things don't work out." They asked me what I would do if I wanted to come home early, if I was sure I was ready to spend that much time with him. When I was so exited to go to Europe and be with the man I fell in love with, all they could focus on was the negative. I just wanted them to be happy for me, but it seemed like they couldn't. It was almost like we had to "prove ourselves." We had to prove that what we felt was real by spending that time together and making it through. Which we did.

It's been over a year now, and I can happily say that I don't feel my friends judge my relationship anymore. At least not in the same ways. They know that Handsome is special and that what we have is real. Sure, sometimes they make fun of me because we're "cheesy," but that's okay. I love doing the overly romantic cheesy things. We argue over who loves each other more, we call each other just to say "I love you," we talk about the big things in our future like they're happening now. My friends might make judge me for it, but it's what keeps our relationship special. We never stop the little things. I never stop gushing over how perfect he is. He never stops telling me how beautiful I am. We don't take each other for granted. 

They can judge me, but I know that I'll never judge someone else's relationship again.  I used to think a girl was crazy if she got back with a guy that cheated on her. I used to think that the dynamic between certain people's relationship was "weird," and I used to be the one to judge people. I think we all do at some point. But I've learned that every relationship is different. If the girl that got cheated on trusts him, really trusts him, then who am I to think otherwise? If a couple's dynamic isn't "normal," who am I to say that they're not going to last? 

I'm glad that the way Handsome and I "met" wasn't typical. The path that our relationship has taken has been far from normal. Others may not understand it, but it has made our relationship so strong. I no longer care what other's think. If they want to judge us, let them. I'm happy, he's happy, and that's all that matters to me.

the bright side to long distance

I think its safe to say that its not secret around here that I'm in a long distance relationship. But if you're new (welcome) or if you've been living under a rock or something: I'm in a long distance relationship. Sometimes it really sucks and I complain about it. I mean, who wouldn't, right? But in the spirit of staying positive I want to share with you some reasons that long distance relationships don't suck.

you appreciate each other a little more. I'm not saying that if you're together all the time you don't appreciate each other, don't get me wrong. But being away from each other eight months out of the year makes you realize how much someone means to you. It makes you cherish your time together and not take the little things for granted. Being in a long distance relationship ended up building such a strong foundation for my relationship with Handsome.

it keeps things interesting, exciting, and fun. Living away from your significant other means you get to travel a lot. Traveling is fun. I got to go all the way to Europe to visit my sexy hunk of a manfriend. And now I'm in Montana where its snowy and cold and you can't go outside without your nipples waking up to say hello. Even better, when you're together you always get to do something fun. When you're only together a few months a year you don't spend your time together sitting around doing nothing. Well, Handsome and I do but I feel like most people do fun stuff. We might go snowboarding tomorrow so that'll be interesting. Lastly, you have to be creative. Its hard to show someone you love them when you never see them, so you have to think of creative ways to express your love!

i don't have to shave my legs. Self explanatory.

the anticipation. Every time we say goodbye, I immediately start a countdown until the next time I'll see him again. Sometimes that sucks (when the countdown is at like 60 days) but once it gets close, it's so exciting to see that number start going down. We always have something to look forward to. Then, when that beautiful day is finally here, we have the sweetest reunions. I love airports. I love walking off the place and freaking out hoping I look okay. I love the butterflies I get in my stomach. I love turning the corner and seeing his handsome smiling face for the first time in months. I love the way kissing him for the first time in months feels. The thought of it makes me so excited to come back already again! Airports can also be the devil though because that's also where we say our goodbyes. Which I'm not looking forward to on Monday. But hey Brianna THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE A POSITIVE POST. Sorry.

we get "me time." Some people that see their boyfriend every day only see their boyfriend every day. They neglect time with their friends, and they neglect time to focus on themselves. I am 100% totally completely one of those people. And I'm okay with that. But I know that I need to focus on school and myself, so sometimes its good I don't see him every day. I would literally skip class every day if he was here. Yolo.

Well, there you have it. Being away from the one you love sucks but sometimes its not that bad.

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you know he's a keeper when...

I think its such an amazing thing to fall in love with your best friend. I'm so incredibly lucky that I've found the man that makes me the happiest and loves me unconditionally, and I'm so lucky that he's honestly my best best friend. It's only been a year since Dj and I have been together, but I already know I'm spending forever with him. He's definitely a keeper. How do I know? Because he's my best friend.

You have fun doing extremely boring things together. When you're with him, even grocery shopping or cleaning the house and folding laundry becomes fun. No one likes laundry- Handsome and I both really hate it. He leaves his clothes in the dryer for like two weeks because he doesn't want to fold them. But when we're doing it together it's really not so bad. I mean how could you not have fun when you're having a shirt folding competition or throwing socks at your boyfriend right?

You have fun doing absolutely nothing together. If you can spend a whole day just sitting around the house doing nothing together, but before you go to bed you think, "Today was a good day," then you know you've got a keeper. If you're in a relationship with your best friend, you shouldn't feel the need to always go out. I love going on dates, don't get me wrong- but I think it's important to be able to stay in and enjoy each other's company, too.

You can fart in front of him. I mean, c'mon, everyone farts. If you can fart in front of him and he's cool about it, then you're good.

You can make fun of him. Handsome has a big forehead. He makes fun of my fingers because they're really long. We love to joke around and make fun of each other. If you're always serious and you don't have a playful side when you're with your significant other- where's the fun in that?! If he teases you, and you can tease right back then I think you're in for a very happy relationship.

You can tell him anything. Whether its something funny that happened, the latest drama, or a good grade on a test, Handsome is always the first to know. I mean sure, he probably gets tired of hearing me talk about all of the girly gossip around here, but he's my best friend! Who else am I going to tell?! It's also really important to be able to tell each other how you feel. If you're uneasy about something, tell him. If he genuinely cares about the way you're feeling, and takes your concerns into consideration- he's a keeper. It's so important that you both can express the way you feel and don't have to hold anything back!

They sometimes suffer for your pleasure. That sounded weird. But here's what I'm trying to say: if he's really the one for you, sometime's he will do things that he doesn't want to do just to make you happy. Maybe it's watching Bridesmaids with you way too much or letting you drag him around the mall for hours. If you have a guy that will do literally anything for you (maybe even let you paint his nails once..hehe) then he's a keeper for sure. And yes, I make Handsome do all of that probably more than I should..

And then of course there are the obvious one's like he makes you feel good about yourself, he's a gentleman, he surprises you sometimes, and he's trustworthy, and all that good stuff. But hey, if you've got a man that fits most of this, ball and chain that shiz right now because he's definitely a keeper!

timing is everything

As another semester flies by, I can't help but think about timing. It's crazy that this semester is over already. I feel like I just moved into my apartment. I still remember my first day of classes- and now I have two days of classes left. It amazes me that this little blog has been around for almost four months now, and most importantly, I can't believe it's been a year since Handsome walked into my life. I remember this time last year, and how infatuated I was with him. I hadn't seen him in person yet, but we'd be talking non-stop for a while and I knew that something good was going to come out of it.

I knew he was a special guy, but if timing hadn't been on our side, I don't think we would be together right now. We began talking in November. He was coming home in January. We talked for about two months before we actually got to spend time together. Within those two months, we learned so much about each other, and I already felt like he knew me better than anyone. He already had a special place in my heart, even though I hadn't been with him. Some people might think I'm crazy for feeling that way, but hey- look how things turned out! 

Anyway, I've been thinking about how lucky we are that he was able to come home in January. I think that there would've been a limit to how long we would've talked without seeing each other. If he hadn't come home in January, I likely wouldn't have gone to Europe, because I mean, who would go across the world to see someone they haven't seen since they were 7...right? The next time he came home was in September. There's no way that we would've talked from November until the next September without seeing each other, at least I don't think we would've.

Basically, I feel very blessed that we started talking when we did and that he got to come home in January. We have such an amazing relationship, and it's crazy that if timing wasn't on our side, we might not be together. It's just another reason that I believe everything happens for a reason. I'm truly so lucky that we get to see each other every 2-3 months, and now that he's back in the states, it's so much easier (and cheaper) to visit. Time is flying by (which is good when were apart), I just hope that when I'm in Montana with him it slows down a little!

six things you should never stop saying to the man in your life

Well, I'm happy. It's officially been a year since Handsome has been in my life! Thinking about the past year, and the many years to come, I got the idea for this post. There are so many things that I love about my relationship and I never want those things to change. Sometimes as relationships grow, people stop doing the small things for each other, but think the best relationships are the one's that never stop doing those small things.

Here are six things that you should never stop saying to the man in your life.

I love you. This one seems like a no brainer to me. Never stop showing him how much you love him and never stop telling him. Tell him every chance you get!

I'm proud of you. No matter what it's for, never stop telling him you're proud. Whether he's doing well at work or accomplished a goal, or even if you're just proud of the man that he is- tell him. He'll love to be reminded that you notice and admire all of his hard work.

Thank you. Always thank him. If he does something for you, no matter how small, thank him. Thank him for supporting you, for loving you, for being there for you. Never let him forget how much you appreciate him.

You're right. Sometimes we can be stubborn. We don't like to be wrong, and we want to prove a point. But sometimes we just have to let him win one. Little arguments over stupid things can be so easily avoided, so if telling him he's right once and a while will prevent an argument, why not?

I'm sorry. When you're wrong- admit it. I don't think that you should over apologize, but if you know that you've done something wrong, just apologize.

I forgive you. On the other hand, when he's made a mistake, or when he's acted like a jerk, just forgive him and move on.

thank you, handsome

November is a month that we dedicate to being thankful, and today is a day we honor our country's heroes. I thought that it would be a good time to thank my hero. 

Handsome,

It's almost been a year now since we've 'known' each other. It's been 352 days of staying up late talking about anything and everything, airport reunions and goodbyes, vacations, countless kisses, and constant laughter. We've been through so much, being so far away, but it has made us so strong and I wouldn't trade this past year for anything. You've been there for me through my ups and downs. Whether I get sad, or really tired and I get that crazy burst of energy and start laughing at everything, you put up with me and you show me an incredible love that I never thought I would experience. 

Thank you. Thank you for being there, for loving me, and for making me feel like the most special girl in the entire world. You do so much for me, so much more than you know and I will forever be grateful. I'm so extremely blessed that I get to spend the rest of my life with you, and I will cherish every moment we get to spend together. The holidays, vacations, buying our first home, starting a family, and the lazy nights we stay in and order pizza and watch movies- I look forward to it all so much. I look forward to it because I get to experience it all with you. Thank you for being such a gentleman. You respect me, and you always consider my feelings. You hold the door, you open the car door, send me flowers, tell me I'm beautiful, call me just to tell me you love me. Could I be any luckier?! I truly appreciate every small, affectionate thing you do for me. I admire the man you are. You're responsible, caring, loving, strong, sexy, smart, and you have the biggest heart. You've made all of my dreams come true. You're everything I've ever wanted in a man, and more. So thank you. For everything! I love you with all my heart and a million times more than I did yesterday.

planning a wedding long distance [a guest post]

Well, it's no secret around here that I am in a long distance relationship. We're going to get married shortly after I graduate, so most of our wedding planning will be long distance as well. 
Today I have a guest post from a woman named Monica. Monica Nolan, a Texan at heart, has recently moved up north to conquer the big apple. With a passion for writing and all things that pertain to love, she has become a relationship and wedding expert. She has some great advice today for planning a wedding while enduring a long distance engagement!

A long distance relationship is not an easy situation for a serious couple. When this long distance relationship turns into a long distance engagement, the challenges are even more evident.  However, be reassured that the planning process is indeed doable. There are several steps you can take to ensure that your wedding will turn out just the way you want it to, no matter the miles that separate the two of you.

Choose the location

Choosing the location is one of the most important parts when planning a wedding, especially with a couple divided between two different areas. You must first decide if it will be more beneficial to choose a neutral location or to have the wedding in your area or his area. Consider the costs associated with the locations (for instance, getting married in Maine is a lot less expensive than NYC), the mobility of those key guests that have to attend, and whether one locale experiences warmer weather than the other.

If you settle on an area that neither of you live in, this will require some traveling efforts to check out the lay of the land, as it is crucial to get to know specifics of the destination. Once decided, the guest list and budget become the next important determining factors when choosing a venue. With your fiancé, determine how large you would like your wedding to be and then find a venue that can accommodate your guests and your budget.

Get a Wedding Planner

If you have chosen a location that neither of you live in, it would be extremely beneficial to hire a wedding planner, especially one that is familiar with your chosen point. You want to choose someone who understands your vision for your wedding, your style and everything in between. Connecting to this person on a personal level will help for the two of you to work together towards the same goal; an amazing wedding. Thumbtack.com is a website that allows you to search for wedding planners in any area and also compare quotes between those wedding planners, letting you get the best deal.

Bridal Party Apparel

Choosing the bridal party apparel can be tricky if everyone is not located in the same area and can go to the same store. It might be best to choose a bridesmaid dress from a chain store, like David’s Bridal, so no matter where each person is located they can go in and get the dress you chose. Another option is to give your bridal party several colors they can choose from and allow them to find a dress that matches the criteria; mail them swatches of fabric, as simply telling your favorite ladies “light pink” might result in a rainbow of different interpretations.

Choose Travel Days

It is important to make at least two trips together to visit the location of your wedding and the wedding venue. The first trip should be made right in the beginning of the planning process so you can be sure that you are choosing the best venue for your wedding. The second trip should be made two or three months before your wedding to finalize plans with vendors and photographers. It is important to make sure you are able to meet with everyone you need to before you make the trip.

Utilize Technology

You most likely use options like Skype to keep your passion alive despite the distance, and you can definitely do the same with wedding planning. Dropbox will allow for the two of you to share large amounts of files free from hassle, and start a Google Doc that you two can continually build upon together for brainstorming ideas. Therefore, you two won’t have to wade through dozens (or hundreds) of wedding-related emails, or spend your precious time on the phone together talking solely about species of flowers.

Balance Decisions

A marriage is about compromise and trust and, when you’re planning your engagement across great distances, the wedding involves much of the same. If one of you is fifteen minutes from the caterer and the other is thousands of miles, it may make your life easier if one person simply has faith that their partner will make the right decision. However, it is important if the person that is far away from the location gets some say on the matter, especially so one person doesn’t feel overburdened while the other feels like they’re being left out of the loop; items that can be picked out remotely include invitations, the DJ and, perhaps with a little bit of assistance “on the ground,” the flowers, centerpieces and color palette.

Planning a wedding for a long distance couple requires a different kind of effort compared to couples located in the same area. However, with a little bit of patience and a lot of communication, your dream nuptials are entirely possible!  

love don't have to be a bunch of drama

Brownie points if you know what song the title of this post comes from! & Thank you everyone for linking up yesterday! If you haven't yet, there's still time! :) Yesterday's link up was all about being thankful. It got me thinking about how thankful I am for Handsome and for the relationship we have. We're best friends, and its really so easy for us. It's perfect, and I think everyone deserves a love like that. He's soooo good to me and I really don't thank him enough.
I never understood people that claim a relationship takes a lot of hard work. 
 I mean, lets face it- if you are having problems in your relationship from the start, isn't that like some sort of sign? If he or she treats you poorly in the beginning, is that really going to change? I know that no relationship is sunshine and rainbows all the time, obviously, but I don't think that it should be something that is a constant struggle either. There's a difference between arguing or disagreeing every once and a while and being unhappy on an almost daily basis. When you're dating someone, specifically in college or especially high school, there should not be that much drama. I just cannot comprehend why a person would stay in a relationship that causes them greif on the daily. You should be with someone that makes you smile- makes your heart smile- every single day.
I see posts on Facebook and tweets all the time from people in relationships saying things like "I'm fighting so hard for this relationship and you're doing nothing. I'm so done." or whatever. Then the next day the same person posts "He's my everything, I love him so much." PS those were actual posts that I saw yesterday and today. First of all, its Facebook, no one needs your relationship drama. But really it just amazes me how many people flutter back and forth almost daily between being "done" and being "so in love." Is a relationship like that really worth it? Do these girls really plan on spending forever like that? 
Now, of course, this is easier said than done. I was in a relationship in high school that was really rough. I was constantly sad and always jealous. So why did I stay with him for over three years?! Who knows. I learned a lot from that relationship though.
My relationship with Dj has really taught me a lot, too. I've realized that there's no better feeling than being in love with your best friend. Love should be easy and fun almost all of the time. I've learned that I deserve to be happy. Everyone deserves to be happy in love. Everyone deserves to find that someone that makes love effortless.
Making a relationship fun and easy really shouldn't be that hard, right? I believe that with good communication, trust, and being best friends is all it really takes. If you really love someone, you're willing to put their needs before your own. You're willing to go out of your way to do anything and everything for that person. I really think that it is that simple. Selfishness almost always leads to the demise of a relationship. But if you listen, respect, and appreciate your loved one, it wont be that difficult. 
It just makes me sad to see people stuck in relationships where they're unhappy and trying to change the other person, yet it probably isn't going to get any better.
*end rant*
On a happier note, I get to see Handsome in 40 days! I'm getting my winter clothes ready...its going to be freezing but I'm seriously so excited. I'm trying to focus on getting to Thanksgiving because once that's over its only a couple weeks until we're back together! This will be our first Christmas and New Years that we actually get to spend together (he was in Germany last year) and that makes me so happy! I'm getting us matching PJs and Santa hats to wear on Christmas sooooo that's good.
PS here's what we'd look like if our faces were switched.

positively positive

Why do I always get randomly inspired late at night when I really need to be sleeping? Not good when I have to be in class in the morning. I also told myself I need to wake up early tomorrow and run before class. We'll see if that actually happens.
I wanted to talk about something that's been very important in my life lately. Positivity.

Staying positive is something that I struggle with sometimes. I mean generally, I'm a positive and happy person. But being in a long distance relationship, sometimes its hard to be positive. Not that I doubt my relationship- I completely 2000% know that being in a long distance relationship will be worth it once I'm with Handsome forever. But sometimes its so hard to embrace suck and see past these tough times without sulking.
Sometimes I let the negative thoughts flood my head.  Why does he have to be so far away? Why can't I just leave school and be with him? How am I supposed to get through these next few months without him? I feel sorry for myself, and I wish that Handsome and I were together.
I think about the amazing times we share and while it fills my heart with complete and utter happiness, it makes me sad because I want it every single day. Some days, I focus on the fact that I'll get to see him again in [47] days. But other times, I miss him so much and it hurts so bad. I want him here with me while I'm doing everything, and I want to be there with him for everything too. All I can focus on is the fact that he is there and I am here. 
I'm officially done with that, though. I'm focusing on the good. How can I be sad when I get to share my life with the most amazing man I've ever met? Sure, we're apart now, but soon I'll be spending my forever with him. Why dwell on the fact that I'm not with him when I should be counting my blessings and appreciating my fairy tale relationship- one better than I always have dreamed of? How can I resent the fact that were apart when it has been an essential part of making our relationship so strong? Although it can be rough at times, and I miss him more than anything in the world, being in a long distance relationship has made us so incredibly strong. We don't take the small things for granted. We appreciate each other, and our time together, so much more. Of course the goodbyes are so unbelievably hard (we end up sitting in the airport crying for like 45 minutes each time), the hellos are always that much sweeter.

So, for the past few days, I've been focusing on the good, and I feel great. Partly because I'm proud of myself for not drowning in my own sadness, and mostly because thinking positively = being happy.

When I feel down, the one thing that makes me feel better is talking about it. When I'm sad, I tell him, and he makes me feel a million times better. Sometimes all it takes is for him to tell me everything is going to be okay, and sometimes I need more than that. But either way, when I express how I feel, its a million times easier to get through it. 

People always say you shouldn't keep things that are bothering you bottled up. Handsome and I are very fortunate, for our relationship has been so easy and fun. We understand each other and appreciate each other. But if there's ever something that bothers me, I always tell him. Right away. I was afraid at first- I didn't want to burden him with my problems and insecurities. But when I have something weighing on my heart, and I tell him, it literally feels like that weight has been lifted. I don't know how to explain that overwhelming feeling of comfort I get when I talk to him, but it amazes me. He amazes me.

So here's to being positive and finding that special someone that can make you feel better with even just a smile!

Who is that someone for you?